Do I need recommendations to apply to colleges?

If they tell you you need recommendations but don't receive any, your application will be incomplete, and they won't consider it.

It's better, of course, if you know your professors (and they know you) before you ask, but that's apparently not possible. So here's what I suggest: pick some in whose classes you've done positive things and go to their office hours, taking with you information about each school and why, specifically, you want to enroll, a copy of your unofficial transcript, something like a resume, copies of graded work from the classes you took from them and anything else you think would give them an understanding of who you are and why you're a good candidate for the schools you're applying to.

Ask them for the letters, leave your packets with them, ask whether there is anything else you can get them to help them write the letters - and if they agree, thank them.

You don't just get to decide which rules apply to you and which don't. So you're free to decide you won't submit any letters of recommendation, but then you'll need to live with the consequences of that decision, including not being accepted.

Whatever you decide to do, I hope it works out for you. Good luck.

Almost every college requires letters of recommendations. I looked up the one you mentioned and they have quite a few requirements and factors in their decision (including letters of recommendations). I know you said you don't really speak to your teachers...but do you at least get decent grades? Do you show any interest/participation in any subject? If you get low marks, never participate, just show up, etc...that might be a problem. If you get a few A's or B's and ask/answer questions, never give a teacher a hard time, etc...it shouldn't be a problem asking them for recommendations. No one expects you to have a friend or talkative relationship but just enough to measure your level of ability, interest, and discipline. Good luck.

http://www.admissions.umd.edu/requirements/Admissi...